More cases of burglaries targeting families of Indian descent reported

Eyewitness News learned the burglaries targeting certain ethnic groups of Indian descent is not isolated to Connecticut, and many municipalities in this state are investigating similar crimes.

At least five residential burglaries happened in East Haven while three were reported in Norwich. The burglaries were reported on Columbus Avenue, Leigh Drive, Henry Street and Bradley Street over a 10-day period in East Haven, police said.

Now, police in other communities are finding similar patterns and warning homeowners.

"The methodology of the crime is similar to each other along with other ones occurring within the state," said Groton Police Lt. John Varone.

Eyewitness News learned the town of Groton is investigating at least two cases in which families of Indian descent were burglarized. High quality gold, jewelry and cash were taken.

Not wanting to reveal certain details, detectives said the suspects gained access in the homes the same manner. Thieves attacked families in East Haven recently.

City detectives in Norwich said they believe their three cases are similar and likely related to this string of crimes spanning the state and beyond.

"We were looking at some of these cases and seeing intelligence bulletins around the Northeast," said Norwich Police Det. James Curtis. "Also had similar cases. The method of entry to the buildings were the same."

And this crime wave isn't contained to Connecticut. Eyewitness News learned burglars are targeting families from Philadelphia, New Jersey, Boston and all the way to Maine.

One police source suspects those, who are targeting their Indian victims, are a highly organized ring.

"We want neighbors to watch out for suspicious vehicles, any suspicious people walking around or driving around the neighborhood, and take note of it," Curtis said.

"Everyone to use good crime prevention measures lock all their doors, lock their valuables in locked safes or some type of container that is safe," Varone said.

Other police agencies are planning a major meeting to pull their resources and information in hopes of identifying and capturing these suspects.

Anyone with any information about the rash of burglaries is asked to call their local police department.